Anilox rollers are essential components in the flexographic printing process. They are responsible for the precise distribution of ink onto the printing plate, ensuring uniform and accurate print quality. Understanding how anilox rollers work and how to choose the right ones is crucial for achieving optimal results in flexographic printing.
What is an Anilox Roller?
An anilox roller is a cylinder used in flexographic printing, made of durable materials such as steel or aluminum. This cylinder is coated with a thin layer of ceramic, which provides wear resistance and a suitable surface for subsequent engraving. Laser engraving creates a grid of microscopic cells on the surface of the roller. These cells have the function of holding and evenly distributing ink onto the substrate during printing, ensuring precise and controlled coverage.
The Role of the Anilox Roller in Flexographic Printing
The anilox roller plays a crucial role in determining the amount of ink applied to the substrate. The density of the cells, their depth and the total volume of the cells directly affect the amount of ink transferred to the printing plate. An anilox roller with denser and deeper cells will transfer a larger amount of ink, while a roller with less dense and shallower cells will transfer a smaller amount of ink.
Choosing the Right Anilox Roller
Choosing the right anilox roller is crucial for achieving quality printing. Giugni offers its expertise to determine the best engraving characteristics based on the customer’s application. Several factors must be considered, including the type of substrate, the type of ink, the print resolution and the desired amount of ink. An unsuitable anilox roller can lead to problems such as smudging, poor definition, excessive ink or insufficient ink.
Maintaining Anilox Rollers
Anilox rollers require regular maintenance to ensure their proper functioning. Regular cleaning of the cells is essential to remove residual ink and maintain their efficiency. It is also important to periodically check the condition of the cells for signs of wear or damage.
